Auto Dealer Joel Higley advertised for a service technician 10 years ago. He didn't get one application. The stinging memory of that experience prompted Higley to get involved in a nearby vocational technology school to recruit a homegrown work force.

Moving from the showroom to the Internet desk can be a tough transition for a salesperson. Internet car sales require a different skill set from showroom car sales. But if a salesperson succeeds, the payoff is sizable.